Monday, December 27, 2010

The first thing I noticed in this loft living room of Ochre owners, Harriet Maxwell Macdonald and Andrew Corrie, was the patinated mirror. Patina and silver leaf- immediate draws for me.

The living space exemplifies my favorite design principles: the mix of old and new, classic and quirky. If possible, I prefer to feature the best of the space, like the tin ceiling and old wood floors, even if it means integrating the old floor boards with new and uniting them with a wash of paint. Then again, that wonderfully tufted, Chesterfield sofa is to die for. Great pop of color, wouldn't you say?

On our last visit to New York City, we were headed to MarieBelle's Cacao Salon for our hot chocolate fix when we strolled by their lovely store. The store, a popular destination with designers and stylists, is filled with Ochre's signature lighting fixtures, furniture and accessories.

were twinkling lights and mini reindeer. The stockings were all hung by the chimney with care, in hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.

Ever since I received The Illustrated Book of Poetry book when I was 7 (my only one still to this day), this was one of my favorite poems to read. I treasured the book and have it on my bookshelf now for safe keeping. It's a bit tattered and torn, but that's ok.

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

I am sporting my new look! The beaucoup talented and very generous Shari (at Little Blue Deer) shared her magic with me and I'm on my way! If you'd like to share in Shari's custom blog designs, be sure to visit here. You will be so excited that you did... I am.

When I saw this photo yesterday over at Trish's sublime blog, Trouvais, I had to share. Between the perfectly imperfect limewash wall and her stunning holiday subtlety, it captivated me.

I have been delaying painting my kitchen because I haven't been able to figure out which way to go... too many choices. But, now I know! Limewash it is. Below are several examples from Trish's home and from Jermaine at the French-Kissed blog (hers is the upper left fireplace).